2027 Guber race: Behold APC gubernatorial candidate in Akwa Ibom State

By Solomon Essiet

In the quiet town of Ikot Ekpene Udo in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, God raised a leader whose journey continues to remind many people that destiny does not always announce itself with noise. Pastor Umo Bassey Eno was not the man many political watchers expected, but he remained steady, focused and guided by faith.

When Akwa Ibom needed calm, reconciliation and purposeful leadership, Governor Eno stepped forward with a message of peace. His emergence in 2023 was not merely a political event; it became a turning point for a state that badly needed healing after years of deep political division.

Three years into his administration, Akwa Ibom has witnessed a leadership style built on compassion, unity and people-centred governance. The peace now enjoyed across the state did not happen by accident. It came through deliberate engagement, humility and the Governor’s firm belief in reconciliation.

Those who understand Akwa Ibom politics know how bitter political differences once became. Families, friendships and communities were often divided along party lines. At some point, genuine reconciliation looked almost impossible.

But Governor Eno came with what he described as a ministry of reconciliation. He reached out to elders, opposition figures, community leaders and ordinary citizens. Today, many of those who once stood apart are now working together for the progress of Akwa Ibom State.

This is why his emergence as the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the 2027 election is significant. It reflects confidence in his leadership and recognition of the peace, stability and development his administration has promoted.

Through the ARISE Agenda, Governor Eno has continued to pursue agricultural growth, rural development, infrastructure improvement, security management and educational advancement. His leadership has shown that no meaningful development can take root where peace is absent.

His decision to move from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, on June 8, 2025, came with questions and doubts. Some wondered whether he would secure the APC ticket for a second term. Others speculated about possible political betrayal.

But today, Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, are working together in the interest of Akwa Ibom State. Their cooperation has shown that focus, maturity and shared purpose can overcome political suspicion.

On behalf of my family, I join the good people of Akwa Ibom State in congratulating His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, on his nomination as the APC gubernatorial candidate ahead of the 2027 election.

May the same God who started this journey continue to guide him.

Essiet, ACIA, Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State